France and EU Seek to Strengthen Economic Ties with Africa Amidst Middle East Conflict

The ongoing conflict in the Middle East, escalating since the U.S. And Israel launched strikes on Iran in February 2026, is prompting a reassessment of economic strategies across the globe. Africa’s economic landscape is being significantly impacted, and Europe is responding with initiatives to bolster ties with the continent, particularly through France and the European Union.

France’s Initiative in Nairobi

France has taken the lead in organizing a platform for discussion in Nairobi, Kenya, bringing together over 2,500 corporate executives from 55 African countries. The two-day conference, held in-depth, focuses on the existential threat posed by the Middle East conflict and explores new avenues for investment and economic cooperation between Africa and France. The central theme revolves around finding new paths for massive investment and forging mechanisms for economic collaboration.

Strengthening economic cooperation between Africa and France is a primary goal, with a focus on innovation and new business directions in the context of geopolitical threats. The conference aims to leverage Africa’s untapped natural resources and human capital, communicating clearly with business and political leaders to design the future. A conference declaration will incorporate the commitment to this strengthened partnership.

Areas of Focus for Franco-African Cooperation

French government and business representatives involved in trade and economic cooperation with African nations are participating, outlining their business architecture. Key areas of focus include developing manufacturing and extractive industries, establishing special economic zones, improving energy and transport infrastructure, digitalization, and bolstering the agro-industrial complex, alongside education and training in entrepreneurship.

France has developed a financial mechanism to support joint business ventures across Africa, with African financial institutions pledging commitment and planning strategies for joint investments in localizing production chains, covering both agricultural and mineral processing.

Shared Vision of Ruto and Macron

Both Kenyan President William Ruto and French President Emmanuel Macron have emphasized the importance of unlocking Africa’s potential, driving sustainable industrialization, and fostering economic growth. Utilizing Africa’s vast resources and human capital is a priority for France in consolidating bilateral engagement and collaboration.

President Ruto stated that the summit reflects a shared commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and deepening multilateral cooperation to advance global goals. The agenda encompasses key areas such as reforming the international financial architecture, the energy transition, green industrialization, the blue economy, connectivity, artificial intelligence, sustainable agriculture, and health. It also highlights the role of young entrepreneurs, civil society, and international organizations in addressing global and regional challenges.

The EU’s €300 Billion Alternative to China’s Belt and Road

Beyond France’s initiatives, the European Union is strengthening its economic partnership with African countries, unveiling a €300 billion ($340 billion) investment program as an alternative to China’s Belt and Road Initiative. The EU aims to create links, not dependencies, through this program.

The European Commission is examining several key areas:

• Supporting the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the green transition.
• Improving the trade and investment climate between the EU and Africa.
• Reinforcing high-level public-private dialogue.
• Enhancing long-term dialogue structures between the EU and African Business Associations.
• Unlocking new business and investment opportunities, particularly in manufacturing, agro-processing, and regional/continental value chain development.

EU-Africa Strategy: Common Interests

The Joint EU-Africa Strategy recognizes shared interests such as climate change, global security, and the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Like China, India, and the United States, France and other European countries are exploring opportunities offered by the AfCFTA, providing access to an integrated African market of 1.5 billion people. The AfCFTA aims to create a continental market for goods and services, with free movement of business people and investments.

Looking Ahead

France intends to capitalize on Africa’s transformative economic sectors through strategic collaboration, maintaining a dynamic and adaptable partnership. Despite geopolitical tensions, France’s long-standing ties offer an appealing partnership model for many African leaders. A summit involving African and French Heads of State and Government is scheduled for May 11-12, 2026, to chart a new path for innovation, growth, and cooperation, positioning Africa as a key partner in global economic development.